On the way out of Kakum NP after dawn on the ropeway, I glanced down. At my feet, I saw something slightly out of place; not just another leaf. I looked closer. This is what I saw.
[22 April 2007, Canon 20D, 24–105 mm f4 L at 105 mm, ISO 400, 1/20s at f5.6]
All content © 2010 Pete McGregor
Okay, here’s what I am thinking about this one.
ReplyDeleteGreat principal subject, even with the skewed position of the hind leg, which I think is a positive, but for me it would have been better to have everything in focus (if that was possible) in order to enhance the concept of camouflage.
However, please note that I am far outside the ring of being a pro photog. Nevertheless, it would have been interesting to see this photo rendered both ways to see the difference. Or maybe just have the green plant in focus and the rest as a slightly equally blurred background; I wonder what affect that would have had.
Just me thinking too much.
That's a thoughtful comment, Paul — thanks. I'm not sure I could have managed sufficient depth of field, though — I was already down to 1/20th of a second, and even pushing the ISO up to 1600 would only have let me stop down to f11. Maybe if I'd had something to brace the camera against I could have slowed the shutter speed to allow another stop or two, but I have to admit this was a case of grab the opportunity or miss it completely.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I do have a photo of one of NZ's native frogs that might be one of the best examples of camouflage you're likely to see. I must get it scanned some day (it's on slide film; from 1983, if I remember correctly). The frog's in full view, occupying most of the frame, but when I first looked at the slide I wondered what I photographed.
Semper Bufo!
ReplyDeleteA charming creature - I'm so glad you didn't tread on him. Sometimes camouflage can be a disadvantage.
RR, it certainly was a beautiful animal. I'd have been devastated if I'd stepped on it.
ReplyDeleteI love Wind in the Willows. I wonder how many kids still read it, or whether most just know it from the animated films? To what extent has it been replaced by the Harry Potter books (not a criticism of those)?
Cheers Andrew :^)
ReplyDelete